Final Reflection

Many of these websites and apps that I have blogged about were once just random tools that I would frequently hear about. However, I have really learned to understand how to use each digital technology tool and how to implement them into the curriculum so students start to become connected creators. I think that it is important that I demonstrate the different uses the tools have to assist students in their learning. I have enjoyed learning about the ways that digital tools can enhance the creative works of students and teachers. It has been interesting to learn all the various ways each of these tools can be used in the curriculum throughout all subjects.

Digital Tools That Excited Me the Most:

I am very excited about Flipagram. When I first used Flipagram, I was frustrated because I could not figure out how to use it and I couldn’t see how it was very beneficial for students. However, I continued to use it in my role as a teacher this year and realized teachers could actually use this application for a reluctant student. My student was not wanting to read his sight words, but I thought Flipagram would be a great way to motivate him to read them. He enjoyed being able to take the pictures of the words, set it to music and watch his creation. I loved being able to see this first hand as a teacher and see how it truly could be used to assist all students in various ways. I have definitely not perfected Flipagram, but I will continue to use it, when I am a librarian, and see all the great ways it can be used in a library and classroom. I am also excited about podcasts. This is a tool I believe that most teachers and students do not know about, or may not understand how to use. I can't wait to teach the school community all the creative ways and possibilities podcasts can be used in all the subject areas.

Digital Tools That Were the Most Difficult:

Infograpghics was the most difficult for me. Although it was not my first time using them, I still cannot seem to be able to think creatively and produce a well-designed infograpghic. Even with the different websites available to create them, I still do not feel comfortable creating an interesting informative infographic. However, I feel that they serve as a great way for students to actually stop and read information and text. I am not a creative person, and I feel that continuing to practice with infographics will enhance my creativity as it will with students.

Digital Tools That Will Most Benefit Students:

I believe that screencasts and Cartoons and Comics will benefits students the most. With screencasts, students can be the teacher and show other students various things they produced such as research findings, and anything else that they want to showcase on the computer. Cartoons and Comics are beginning to make their way back into the education world.  They are not new but the way they are being used is new to students. Students can use cartoons and comics in any subject area. For example: they can be used to teach sequencings in ELA, or a particular skill in math. The possibilities are endless which makes this tool beneficial to students.

I am very eager to teach the students and teachers about all these new digital tools, use the tools in the curriculum, and use them throughout the library as well. Learning about new tools that are always being created is something I will ensure I am consistently doing in my library. These tools can only enhance and benefit a student’s learning and a teacher’s teaching.